The Nigerian Army (NA) reaffirmed its commitment to partnership and transparency with the media during the First Quarter Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) Media Chat held on April 3, 2024, at Ekwueme Hall, Bon Hotel Asaba. Under the theme “Imperatives of Military-Media Partnership for the Attainment of National Security,” the event aimed to foster dialogue, exchange crucial information, and enhance understanding between the NA and the media.
Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), emphasized the significance of the media in bridging communication gaps between the military and the public. Represented by Major General Jamil Abdussalam, the COAS highlighted the media’s role in providing essential information, shaping public opinions, and ensuring accountability through responsible reporting.
Acknowledging the urgency to address security challenges, Lieutenant General Lagbaja emphasized the need for strategic adjustments in deployed troops to achieve desired outcomes across various operational theaters. He condemned the recent unprovoked killings of troops in Delta State, urging the media to refrain from inadvertently amplifying the activities of undesirable elements.
The COAS reassured the nation of the unwavering loyalty of NA officers and soldiers to the President and the Constitution of Nigeria.
The Special Guest of Honour, Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, Director General of Voice of Nigeria, highlighted the importance of CIMIC in disseminating accurate information to foster trust and understanding among the public. He commended the NA for its dedication to protecting the nation and urged both parties to strengthen collaboration to address multifaceted challenges facing the country.
Major General Nosakhare Ugbo, the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs (CCMA), emphasized the importance of responsible journalism and mutual understanding. He urged the media to report truthfully and ethically while assuring accessibility to accurate information from the NA.
The event featured goodwill messages from government officials, lectures by retired generals and professors, panel discussions, and presentations. Military officers, security agency heads, government officials, and media executives were among the attendees.
The CIMIC Media Chat signifies the NA’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and partnership with the media in promoting national security and public trust.
The Nigerian Army remains dedicated to safeguarding the nation and fostering collaboration with the media to address evolving security challenges.
